A Clear, Paid Path into Teaching
A fellowship that makes becoming a teacher accessible and affordable.
- Earn as you learn
- Real classroom experience
- Support along the way
Application for 2026–2027 school year is open!
Join over 2,000 successful fellows
Ready to explore a career in teaching?
You want work that matters, and you need a clear plan
You might be:
- Considering a change into something more meaningful
- Finishing college and unsure what comes next
- Looking for a profession with stronger long-term growth
- Interested in teaching but unsure how certification works—or how to pay for it
“What a ride this has been. I feel ready to soar into the next part of this journey!”
Maybe you’ve tried:
- looking for certification information and got overwhelmed
- programs that don’t fit your finances or schedule
- pushing it off because it feels unrealistic
TeachStart makes it simple and accessible.
TeachStart has helped over 2,000 aspiring educators enter the classroom
Earn while you learn
A financially accessible way to enter teaching without putting your life on pause.
A clear, guided path
You’ll know what the steps are, what matters next, and how to keep moving forward.
Real experience
Build classroom confidence, supported by training, coaching, and community.
“This journey gave me so much more than just practice—it gave me the confidence to believe in myself, and I am incredibly grateful.”
Mary Armstrong, TeachStart Sacramento
Sterling Wu joined us in 2023. Before TeachStart he was a _______ – just 12 months later he’s got his own classroom at a local school.
Course Overview
Included in our Teacher Training Fellowship
Guidance and Support Through the Teacher Certification Process
Clear steps. Real support.
- Structured guidance to obtain permits and credentials
- Admissions support with credentialing partners
- Placement support toward full-time teaching roles
You’ll know what to do next — and why it matters.
Training & Development from Expert Teachers
Preparation that reflects real classrooms
- Foundational training in classroom management
- Paid professional development throughout the year
- Ongoing mentoring from experienced educators
- Coaching to strengthen confidence and instruction
You build capability alongside a cohort — not alone.
Affordable Teacher Credentials
A path that’s financially realistic.
- Tuition discounts with credentialing partners
- Startup costs covered, including permits and exam fees
- Free tutoring and study materials for certification exams
The goal is simple: remove financial barriers so you can move forward.
Salary and Benefits while you Train to Teach
An earn-while-you-learn teaching model
- Guaranteed pay while substitute teaching
- Health, vision, and dental insurance
- Paid training days, holidays, and vacation
You continue earning while progressing toward certification.
Your Step-by-Step Path
A clear, supported progression — from application to full-time teaching
Apply and explore your potential
Submit a short application and speak with our team to see if this path aligns with your goals
Onboard as a TeachStart Fellow
Get to know your TeachStart Consultant and learn more about your school assignment
Attend Foundations Training
Build the skills you'll need to succeed in the classroom and forge connections with your Fellow community
Earn while you teach
Work as a paid substitute teacher with benefits and ongoing professional development
Transition into full-time teaching
Get hired directly by a school into a full-time teaching role.
Find the answers
What is TeachStart?
TeachStart is a structured, earn-while-you-learn pathway where aspiring educators work as substitute teachers while progressing through the teacher certification process.
Do I need prior teaching experience?
No prior teaching experience is required. TeachStart is built both for people new to teaching as well as those who have taught before in some capacity.
What happens after I complete TeachStart?
We support job placement at the end of the fellowship. Many Fellows transition into full-time teaching roles within partner schools and districts.
What credentials can Fellows pursue?
Fellows are free to pursue credentials in any area that interests them, though we do strongly suggest credentials in high-need areas, such as SPED, ESL, or STEM. Credentials in these areas increase the likelihood schools will want to hire you.
Do I get paid during the TeachStart Fellowship?
Yes. Fellows earn a guaranteed wage with benefits, and have paid training days, holidays, and paid time off.
Is TeachStart part-time?
No. TeachStart is a full-time fellowship where you'll work full time in one of our partner schools, earning while you learn.
How much does TeachStart cost?
There is no cost for TeachStart itself; you earn income as a Fellow by working with our partner schools each day. We also cover some costs for you on your journey to becoming a teacher.
You don’t need to figure it all out yourself
TeachStart gives you the support and guidance you need to take your first steps into teaching.
